Education 450: Introduction
~At the core of learning exists a state of vulnerability, a state of uncertainty that is unique to each individual. Through this state of unknown, our minds intuitively make connections and attempt to figure things out. It’s a process that requires misunderstanding to achieve understanding. As an educator, I believe in invigorating students to take risks and not be afraid to make mistakes, as well as having the confidence to think critically in those times.
Considering the art classroom specifically, I plan to create a safe environment for students to express themselves. I think our current society could improve our ability to think for ourselves and bring what we can to contribute to the common good. It’s our job as educators to bring out the unique abilities of each student, and give them the tools and confidence to make an impact, large or small. In this way, teacher and student are in partnership. The students hold the learning in their hands, while we guide their thinking and continue to grow alongside each other.~
My time spent in Education 450 has been one of the largest learning experiences I have ever had. Allison Alter, my cooperating teacher, had been teaching for over 10 years and has an immense amount of knowledge in art skills and history, as well as curriculum in art education. I learned the importance of being dependable more than anything. I made mistakes and learned from them in a transformational way. I am grateful for being in an environment centered around growth because my growth was raw and immeasurable.
More specifically, I learned the concept of teaching art as a PROCESS. It is a path of taking steps, unique to everyone, with each step evolving into the next. Especially in Alter's 2D Design class, I watched the skills of each student evolve with each activity and project. Alter built up each project with attainable stages based off of skill and understanding. She also taught me the small, but important, things such as putting grades into the grade book, matting an artwork, or setting up the classroom for an activity. These lessons are the ones that will allow me to feel just that much more confident when I have my own classroom.
Considering the art classroom specifically, I plan to create a safe environment for students to express themselves. I think our current society could improve our ability to think for ourselves and bring what we can to contribute to the common good. It’s our job as educators to bring out the unique abilities of each student, and give them the tools and confidence to make an impact, large or small. In this way, teacher and student are in partnership. The students hold the learning in their hands, while we guide their thinking and continue to grow alongside each other.~
My time spent in Education 450 has been one of the largest learning experiences I have ever had. Allison Alter, my cooperating teacher, had been teaching for over 10 years and has an immense amount of knowledge in art skills and history, as well as curriculum in art education. I learned the importance of being dependable more than anything. I made mistakes and learned from them in a transformational way. I am grateful for being in an environment centered around growth because my growth was raw and immeasurable.
More specifically, I learned the concept of teaching art as a PROCESS. It is a path of taking steps, unique to everyone, with each step evolving into the next. Especially in Alter's 2D Design class, I watched the skills of each student evolve with each activity and project. Alter built up each project with attainable stages based off of skill and understanding. She also taught me the small, but important, things such as putting grades into the grade book, matting an artwork, or setting up the classroom for an activity. These lessons are the ones that will allow me to feel just that much more confident when I have my own classroom.